Is It Safe to Take Melatonin While Pregnant?
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Melatonin supplement has gained immense popularity in aiding deep slumber. But research is still needed to understand if melatonin is a safe supplement during pregnancy. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the body that induces sleep and can also enhance its quality. During pregnancy, the ovaries and placenta make use of high levels of hormones until delivery. It also works with oxytocin during labour and then delivery. So, can you take melatonin while pregnant? Read on to learn more!
What Is Melatonin?
Our body produces a hormone known as melatonin, which helps regulate our sleep cycle. Melatonin is produced when it’s dark, and it helps us feel sleepy. Research suggests that melatonin is also essential for other body functions, but they are not yet fully understood. Some people take melatonin supplements to improve their sleep cycle. However, consult your doctor first if you want to do the same.
Is It Safe to Take Melatonin During Pregnancy?
As aforementioned, melatonin is natural as your body makes it’s own. However, just because something is natural doesn’t mean it is safe. Even when it comes to research, there is no conclusive evidence stating that melatonin is safe during pregnancy. In fact, according to one study, it was seen that taking melatonin during pregnancy adversely affected baby birth weight and baby mortality. Therefore, if you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor before you take melatonin while pregnant and ask for safe supplements you can take.
How Much Melatonin Should a Pregnant Woman Take?
A typical melatonin dosage is between 1 to 3 mg. But can you take 5mg of melatonin? Adults can take up to 5 mg after consulting a doctor. And how many mg of melatonin can you take while pregnant? Well, there is no standard dosage for pregnant women.
Can you take melatonin while pregnant first trimester? If you plan to take melatonin supplements, you must consult your doctor first.
Potential Benefits of Melatonin During Pregnancy
There is still a need for more research on all the benefits of melatonin pregnancy. A few animal studies suggest that melatonin supplements can reduce the risks of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. But the research is still inconclusive, and further analysis still needs to be conducted.
Insomnia and Pregnancy
Several reasons, such as back pain, breast tenderness, and more, can keep you awake. Sometimes, you may also have insomnia due to stress. Therefore, if you feel worried about your delivery, work, or anything, talk to your partner or family to keep your mind at rest. However, if you think a supplement can help combat insomnia, ask a medical expert.
What Sleep Aids Are Safe for Pregnancy?
As a pregnant woman, it is essential to avoid taking over-the-counter sleep medication or other drugs without consulting a doctor. However, to ensure you enjoy a cosy comfortable sleep, you can try the below pregnancy-safe sleep aids;
- Try relaxing techniques, such as meditation
- Avoid carbonated drinks, spicy food, tomatoes, and citrus as they can lead to a heartburn
- Improve your sleep hygiene, such as avoiding electronics before bed and keeping your room dark and relaxing
- Pregnancy can lead to leg cramping, so soothe your legs
Can You Take Melatonin While Breastfeeding?
Short-term use of melatonin is generally considered safe. However, it’s not the same for all. First, you must check if melatonin supplements are safe for you and your baby. Research shows that some breastfeeding moms have used melatonin in the evening, which has been safe. Can you take melatonin 10 mg while pregnant? Well, there is still not enough evidence that encourages you to take melatonin. So, first, talk to your doctor.
What If I Take Melatonin Before Realizing I’m Pregnant?
Melatonin shows little harm. So, you don’t have to worry if you have discovered you have taken melatonin early on. Just make sure you stop taking the supplement immediately. Just to be on the safer side, make sure you speak with your doctor. Based on your health and medical history, your healthcare provider will be able to offer the right guidance.
Safety Precautions
Before you choose melatonin, make sure you follow the below safety precautions;
- Discuss your case with your doctors, such as dosage and duration
- Purchase only the prescribed product
- Keep a check on eye side effects
Conclusion
If you plan to use melatonin during pregnancy, you must speak with your healthcare provider. They may also suggest a safer alternative that can be best suited for you and the baby.
FAQs
Can I take anything to help me sleep while pregnant?
Before you take any supplement, you must speak with your healthcare provider first.
Can I take 5mg of melatonin while pregnant?
Adults can take from 1-5 mg of melatonin. But you must always speak with your doctor before taking melatonin while pregnant.
What to do when you can’t sleep while pregnant?
If you cannot sleep while pregnant try relaxing techniques like meditation.
What week does pregnancy fatigue peak?
Pregnancy fatigue is expected during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Can lack of sleep during pregnancy affect the baby?
Research suggests that if you suffer from lack of sleep, can lead to pregnancy complications, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and longer labour.
What causes sleepless nights during pregnancy?
Insomnia during pregnancy can cause anxiety, mood disorders, breathing-related syndrome, and restless leg syndrome.
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